WCDO Radio News

UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital, in partnership with the Norwich Family YMCA, will host a free educational program tonight focused on helping baseball and softball players stay strong, and injury-free throughout the season. UHS Spokesperson Melissa Stagnaro explains:

(Melissa Stagnaro 4-21-26)

The "Pitch Smart, Play Hard” program is tonight at 6:00 PM on Court 1 at the Norwich Family YMCA, 68 North Broad Street in Norwich. The program is free and open to the public. For more information, call (607) 337-4510

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 4-21-26

Norwich Police executed a search warrant Friday on East Main Street & Arrested 52 year old Delf King, following a Chenango County Court indictment. King was charged with 3 counts of Burglary, Attempted Robbery, and 2nd & 3rd degree Assault. King was arraigned on the charges & was remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $40,000 bail, pending future court action.

The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation announced that 10 projects and individuals have been recognized with 2026 New York State Historic Preservation Awards. Locally, the MARK Project of Arkville, will receive the Joan K. Davidson Award, They have spent over 40 years advancing community revitalization in the central Catskills through collaborative, locally driven initiatives and becoming a model for community-based revitalization, uniting local leaders, residents, and funding partners, through initiatives in affordable housing, economic development, local MARK PROJECTfood systems, tourism, farming, civic planning, and downtown revitalization.

The Otsego County Chamber of Commerce announced their 2026 Annual Award Winners, the Business of the Year is Unalam, the Eugene A. Bettiol Jr. Distinguished Citizen is Jamie Reynolds, the Leadership Otsego Alumni is Allen Ruffles & the Volunteer of the Year is Adam Stoutenberg, they will be honored at the Chambers annual Dinner on May 14th.

Applications are now open for Leadership Chenango, which is a 10 month course designed to inspire participants to bring out their leadership skills. Topics will include local government, agriculture, education, social services, the non-profit sector, judicial system, economic development, business and entrepreneurism, tourism, and health care. More information, contact Commerce Chenango at (607) 334-1400 or via email at info@chenangony.org. The application is available online at www.commercechenango.com. To be considered for the Class of 2024, completed applications must be submitted no later than 4 pm. on Friday, December 17.

The Board of Directors of Commerce Chenango announced the selection of Sal Testani as the organization’s new president and chief executive officer. Testani is a Norwich native , he has more than 16 years of experience as a senior leader with both MeadWestvaco and ACCO Brands in Sidney, & he will assume his new role on November 1. Testani will appear at today's Commerce Chenango Open House at their South Broad Street Norwich office.

Commerce Chenango will host an open house today as part of "Support Your Local Chamber Of Commerce Day, Commerce Chenango Director of Communications & Tourism Audrey Robinson comments:

(Audrey Robinson 10-13-22)

Robinson said that the event is also open to the public at their South Broad Street Norwich location, beginning at 4:00 PM.

The Chenango County Farm Bureau Annual Meeting date is set for October 26, 2022. The meeting will be held at Fred’s Inn, Rte. 12, Norwich, NY. Cocktails at 6:30pm (networking) Dinner at 7:00pm.

Commerce Chenango will host an open house next Wednesday as part of "Support Your Local Chamber Of Commerce Day, Commerce Chenango Director of Communications & Tourism Audrey Robinson comments:

(Audrey Robinson 10-13-22)

Robinson said that the event is also open to the public Next Wednesday at their South Broad Street Norwich location, beginning at 4:00 PM.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 7-29-22

The Norwich Theater Company & the Chenango Arts Council presents "Once Upon A Mattress" this weekend, with the 1st performance tonight in Norwich, Mary Beth Miller of the Chenango Arts Council comments:

(Mary Beth Miller 7-29-22)

The performances will all be at the Martin W. Kappel Theater in Norwich.

The Sidney Police Department & State Police, participated Thursday in the "Go for the Gold" event at the Dunkin Donuts Location at the Speedway convenience store at State Route 7 and 8. This fund raising event benefits the Special Olympics of New York, the local effort raised $1,967 for the athletes of the Special Olympics.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 7-29-22

The 1st Chenango County Wine, Beer, and Food Festival presented by Commerce Chenango Tourism will be held Saturday at the Chenango County Fairgrounds in Norwich from 11 am. to 7 pm. Commerce Chenango President & CEO Kerri Green explains:

(Kerri Green 7-29-22)

More information is available at Chenangowbffest.com, or on their Facebook, Twitter or Instagram pages.

Commerce Chenango Tourism announced their Inaugural "Wine Beer Food Festival" on July 30th at the Chenango County Fairgrounds in Norwich, Commerce Chenango President & CEO Kerri Green told WCDO News about the new venture on the WCDO Morning show this morning:

(Kerri Green 3-16-22)

More information is available at chenangowbffest.com, as well as their Facebook, Twitter & Instagram pages.

The New York State Department of Labor released preliminary local unemployment rates for January 2022. The State’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate decreased from 5.4% in December 2021 to 5.3% in January 2022. Delaware & Chenango Counties reported at 4% Unemployment, Otsego had 4.1% unemployment in January.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 12-14-21

Delaware County Chamber of Commerce President Ray Pucci defended accusations made against him & The Chamber today on the WCDO Morning show, that were made at the Delaware County Board of Supervisors meeting in Delhi, where he was accused of withholding financial statements to the Board, they have removed the Chamber as the County's Official Tourism agency & passed that responsibility over the Delaware County Department of Economic Development:

(Ray Pucci 12-14-21)

Pucci said that the chamber will continue with its other programs for its 300 members businesses, plus the annual Toys for Tots campaign, and trying to solve the issue of transportation for county residents to County jobs, more information is available at delawarecounty.org.

Delaware County Board of Supervisors Chairperson Tina Mole announced today that the County will not reallocate resources to enforce the newest New York State mask mandate that took effect on Monday. Mole stated that Delaware County does not have the internal framework to enforce this mandate, but businesses have oversight from other state agencies, such as Agriculture and Markets or other professional licensing boards, which may enforce the Mask newest mandate. County residents are asked to follow the mandate in business following the mandate lease, pleases wear masks in public spaces, get vaccinated and continue to be diligent with social distancing and hand washing practices. More information about COVID is available at delawarecountypublichealth.com.

Chenango County Health Department continues to schedule vaccine clinics around the county. a 1st dose Pfizer Vaccine clinic for ages 5 and older will be held at the Greenlawn Elementary School in Bainbridge today from 4:00 to 6:00 PM.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 12-14-21

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle in the Town of Hamden last Tuesday for an equipment violation. 53 year-old Lisamichelle LaLonde, of Morris, was operating a motor vehicle with a suspended New York driver’s license, due to a previous insurance lapse. LaLonde was later issued traffic tickets for Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle in the Third Degree, Unlicensed Operator, and Insufficient Brake Lamps. LaLonde is scheduled to appear before the Town of Hamden Court at a later date to answer the charges.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 12-9-21

The Southern Tier Regional Economic Development Council has awarded the City of Norwich a 10-Million-Dollar grant for the revitalization of downtown Norwich. Commerce Chenango President & CEO Kerri Green commented about the award on WCDO this morning:

(Kerri Green 12-9-21)

Green said that the area that will benefit is about 1 mile long and a quarter-mile wide and is in the existing Business Improvement District in Norwich, the Norwich Proposal can be viewed by going to ny.gov, click on downtown revitalization initiative, go to round 5 winners & scroll to Southern Tier & click on Norwich & then view DRI Application.

The Delaware County Board of Supervisors has decided to name the Delaware County Department of Economic Development as the entity to promote tourism. Previously, tourism programs were run by the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce, through a contract with Blue Spark Creative Services of Delhi, Blue Spark is expected to continue its work through the Department of Economic Development.

A.M. News Thursday 12-9-21

Delaware County Public Health will hold a COVID 19 Vaccination Clinic at 97 Main Street in Delhi today. Johnson & Johnson vaccine-Walk-ins and Moderna 1st or 2nd shot Walk-ins will be held from 1:00 to 2:00 PM, Moderna boosters require Pre-registration, they can get the boosters between 2:00 to 400 PM, register at apps2.health.ny.gov/doh2, for more information, call Delaware County Public Health at 607-832-520

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 10-8-21

Commerce Chenango and Morrisville State College-Norwich invites local businesses to participate in the 2021 Career Expo on November 9th from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Attendees will be able to talk one-on-one with representatives of corporate, small business, government, and non-profit organizations. prospective Employers can register to participate at files.constantcontact.com, no later than October 20th.

State Police will team up with local law enforcement on special traffic enforcement efforts for the Columbus Day weekend, cracking down on speeding and impaired motorists. The Columbus Day campaign will run through Tuesday, as Troopers expect increased traffic volumes due to the holiday weekend and fall tourism. During last year's Columbus Day enforcement period, State Police and local law enforcement issued 44,016 total tickets, including 11,618 for speeding and 941 for impaired driving.

Chenango River Theater will present only the 2nd staging ever of “The Craftsman ‘ which premiered in Philadelphia recently. Tonight is the Opening Night Performance, Theater spokesman Bill Lelbach explains:

(Bill Lelbach 10-8-21)

Lelbach said that the Author Bruce Graham will be in attendance tonight, the show runs through October 24th, on Thursday, Friday & Saturday nights at 7:30 & Sunday Matinees at 2:00 PM, Tickets can be purchased at chenangorivertheatre.org, or by calling the box office at 656-8499.

The Chenango County Historical Society will host a special program Saturday with several activities planned in celebration of Path Through History weekend. Both the exhibit opening and “Wall of Honor” ceremony will be held at 45 Rexford Street in Norwich, more information is available at ChenangoHistorical.org or 334-9227, extension 2.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 9-14-21

Chenango County Sheriff's Office responded to a fatal 2-car motor vehicle accident on County Road 36 in the Town of Guilford Monday.  Investigators reported that 22-year-old Dominique Brissett of Walkill was traveling north bound on County Road 36 and collided with an SUV operated by 23-year-old Rachel Feyh of Sidney.  Brissett was pronounced dead on the scene, Feyh was air lifted by Life Net to SUNY Upstate Medical in Syracuse, where she was listed in critical but stable condition. The investigation into the cause of the motor vehicle accident is still ongoing.

CDO Workforce is partnering with Otsego County Chamber of Commerce, Commerce Chenango, and Delaware County Chamber of Commerce for the 2nd Virtual Career Fair, today, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. The free event will allow local companies and job seekers to connect one-on-one for immediate placement opportunities, especially in industries that are in high demand including Healthcare, Hospitality, Tourism, & Manufacturing, more information is available at 432-4800.

After a year and a half hiatus, due to the Covid-19 Virus, the Mid York Concert Band is looking forward to beginning rehearsals today for the 40 plus piece ensemble made up of professionals, educators, students and dedicated amateurs from Chenango and surrounding counties.   Spokesman Mark Sands told WCDO News about the musicians they are recruiting:

(Mark Sands 9-14-21)

Sands said that the rehearsals are every other Tuesday evening, with the 1st rehearsal tonight from 7:00 to 9:30 in the Norwich Middle School band room. There are 2 scheduled concerts, December 14, 2021 and May 22, 2022.More information is available at 334-4307 or by email: midyorkcb@gmail.com

CDO Workforce, serving Chenango, Delaware, Otsego counties, is partnering with Otsego County Chamber of Commerce, Commerce Chenango, and Delaware County Chamber of Commerce for the 2nd Virtual Career Fair, on Tuesday, September 14th from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. The free event will allow local companies and job seekers to connect one-on-one for immediate placement opportunities, especially in industries that are in high demand including Healthcare, Hospitality, Tourism, & Manufacturing, more information is available at 432-4800.

The Summer Fest/ Bainbridge Days event will be held today & tomorrow, Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce spokesperson June White explains:

(June White 9-3-21)

The activities will start this afternoon at 5:00 PM, and continue on Saturday at 9:00 AM, with Events will be in the park and on Main Street.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 7-8-21

NYSEG crews continue to work to try to restore power to thousands of customers in the Southern Tier, following last nights storms that knocked down trees & power lines. Over 10,000 were without power in Broome County this afternoon, about 190 were without power in Delaware County, over 100 in Chenango County had power outages this afternoon, power has been fully restored in Otsego County.

State Police in Troop C are continuing with their crackdown on drunk & drugged drivers throughout the region. Troopers removed 46 impaired drivers from local roadways in the month of June, Troop C encompasses Broome, Chenango, Cortland, Delaware, Otsego, Tioga and Tompkins Counties.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce seeks nominations of Delaware County businesses in varying categories for its Annual Awards Ceremony in October. The categories are: Business of the Year, New Business of the Year, Tourism Property of the Year, and Business Advocate of the Year. Nominations must be received by the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce at 5 ½ Main Street, Delhi 13753 or info@delawarecounty.org by August 15th. More information is available at 746-2281 or delawarecounty.org.

NYSEG is reporting that almost all power has been restored to customers in Chenango, Delaware & Otsego Counties this afternoon.  Officials reported that over 650 lost power due to downed trees & Power Lines from last night’s storms.

The Chenango County Health Department is hosting another Pfizer Vaccine Clinic, today at Former Norwich Label Shopper, in the South Plaza, from 3:00 to 6:00 PM.  Registration is available at co.chenango.ny.us/public-health, Appointments are required, the 2nd dose will be held on July 13th at the same location, and more information is available at 337-1660.

CDO Workforce is partnering with Otsego County Chamber of Commerce, Commerce Chenango, and Delaware County Chamber of Commerce for a Virtual Career Fair, today from 11:00 AM until 1:00 PM.  This event will focus on industries that are in high demand, including: Healthcare, Hospitality, Tourism & Manufacturing.

Chenango County Public Health continues to see an increase in COVID 19 cases.  They currently have 62 active cases, with 399 people quarantined.  They have had 10 deaths, 486 recoveries; they have had a total of 563 cases since March.

Tourism-related dollars spent in Delaware County in 2019 have grown to $121 million, according to a report issued by the Empire State Development Division for Tourism Development, Delaware County Chamber of Commerce President Ray Pucci comments:

(Ray Pucci 11-23-20)

Traveler spending increased 2.5% across of all New York. The strongest growth occurred in the Catskills with a 7.3% increase in spending last year.  Tourism accounted for over 1,145 jobs in Delaware County resulting in $41.7 million in labor income recirculating through the local economy.  Tourism generated more than $7.7 million in local taxes and over $6.6 million in state taxes.

Chenango County Public Health announced that over the weekend, they increased their total of COVID 19 cases by 4 to 216.  They report 130 current quarantines, 195 recoveries, 7 deaths , 1 person is hospitalized, and they have conducted just over 18,000 tests.

The Otsego County Chamber of Commerce is hosting our very first "Drive Thru Job Fair!" this Thursday from 9:00 AM to 12:00 Noon in the parking lot of Damaschke Field.  25 local area employers will participate,  Job Seekers will just drive in, follow the signs and traffic flow and remain in the car with your face mask on as you drive to each employer.  There is no fee to job seekers.

Area Chambers of Commerce & Local Governments are urging people to complete the 2020 Census as soon as possible.  The Census results help determine how billions of dollars in federal funding flow into states and communities each year and helps to keep taxes lower, the census can be found online at 2020census.gov.

State Police responded Friday to a reported of a shooting at 1205 Conklin Road in the town of Conklin.  Troopers immediately located two female victims in the parking lot.   38 year old Alison Salisbury of Binghamton was shot and was pronounced deceased at the scene.  42 year old Shannon Brooks of Conklin was shot in the hand and transported to UHS Wilson Medical Center where she was treated and released.  State Police arrested 45 year old Lance Johnson of Binghamton man for 2nd degree Murder & 2nd degree Attempted Murder, & is being held in the Broome County Jail without bail.

Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul Hosts A Roundtable with Tourism Leaders to Discuss How to Build Back Better, at 1:00 PM at the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum Library on Fair Street in Cooperstown.

The
Chenango County Board of Supervisors passed a resolution to implement a 4%
occupancy "Bed" tax in Chenango County. The new Law will provide a
dedicated funding stream to promote and develop the tourism industry in
Chenango County and to reduce pressure on the property tax levy.  Chenango County has been one of just a few
counties in New York State that had not previously collected a bed tax.   Tourism is New York’s 3rd largest industry,
hosting 253 million visitors annually who spend 71.8 billion at NYS businesses
creating 114.8 billion in economic impact.

The New
York State Public High School Athletic Association announced that regional
& state championships will be postponed indefinitely.  The impacted events include Ice Hockey, Bowling
& the Boys & Girls Basketball regional & State Championships.  Officials announced the postponements were
due to the reports of the Corona Virus outbreaks across the state, to insure
the safety & health of the student athletes.

The
Sidney Chamber of Commerce has decided to cancel the 3rd Annual Sidney- Irish for
a Day Parade Saturday, due to health concerns related to the coronavirus.

State Police arrested 32 year old Tavish Braman of Oxford
for 3rd degree Assault, after Troopers were dispatched to the town of
McDonough, were they observed an intoxicated male laying on a driveway.  A victim told troopers that they were giving
Braman a ride due to his intoxication; the victim reported that Braman punched
him in the face and head. The victim was taken to Chenango Memorial Hospital
and Braman was also taken to the hospital due to his level of intoxication, he
was released & was arraigned & remanded to Chenango County Jail on
$1000 cash bail or $2500 bond, pending court action on August 15th, an order of
protection was issued to the victim.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce will hold their
Annual Business Awards ceremony at 6:00 PM at Meredith Inn, 4206 Turnpike Road,
Delhi, which is a change in venue due to the likelihood of Showers &
Thunderstorms.  The Honorees include the
Delhi Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, as the 2019 Business of the Year,
Stagecoach Run Art Festival, headquartered in Treadwell and Franklin, and Table
to Farm Tours of Roxbury, will receive the 2019 Tourism Award.

The Otsego County Chamber of Commerce is asking its members
to complete their annual survey. All answers by respondents will remain confidential,
the answers will help the Chamber in their efforts to ensure that the services
of the Chamber meet the needs of businesses.
The Survey link can be found at cxvibe.typeform.com and need to be
completed by July 26th.

The Chenango County Planning Department, working in
conjunction with Opportunities for Chenango, is slated for a $500,000 Community
Block Grant through the New York State Office of Homes and Community Renewal.
Money will be allocated to income-eligible homeowners in need of making vital
home improvements.  The plan would need
to be approved by the Chenango County Board of Supervisors before the money
could be made available to homeowners.

The Delaware County Chamber of
Commerce will honor businesses at their 2019 Annual Business Awards ceremony on
Wednesday at 6:00 PM.  The Chamber announced
today that the event has been moved to the Meredith Inn at 4206 Turnpike
Road,  Delhi, due to the likelihood of
Showers & Thunderstorms.  The
Honorees include the Delhi Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, as the 2019
Business of the Year, Stagecoach Run Art Festival, headquartered in Treadwell
and Franklin, and Table to Farm Tours of Roxbury, will receive the 2019 Tourism
Award.  More information is available at delawarecounty.org.

1 person was injured in a fire Friday at the Mayrose
Apartments on Lewis Avenue in Oneonta.
The fire started in apartment 206, the occupant was taken to fox
Hospital for an undisclosed injury, and 1 other person in another apartment was
displaced due to smoke & water damage.
The investigation is continuing.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce will honor
businesses from every corner of the county at its 2019 Annual Business Awards
ceremony on July 17 at 6:00 PM at Bird Song Farm on state Highway 10 in Delhi.
The Honorees include the Delhi Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, as the 2019
Business of the Year, Stagecoach Run Art Festival, headquartered in Treadwell
and Franklin, and Table to Farm Tours of Roxbury, will receive the 2019 Tourism
Award.  Tickets are $50 per person or a
table of 8 for $350, more information or to purchase tickets, visit
delawarecounty.org.

The Chenango County Department of Public Works announced
that starting July 8th, Crews will begin bridge rehabilitation work on 2
structures on County Road 32, in the Town of Norwich.  The work on these projects will last into the
fall; they will maintain two way traffic at each bridge structure; however the
traffic pattern at each structure shall change as the projects progress.    The Contractor shall install concrete
barriers, signage and other channelizing devices to assist in guiding the
traveling public through these active work zones at these bridge
structures.    Questions and concerns can
be directed to Shawn Fry at 337-1710.

Tourism-related dollars spent in Delaware County in 2017 have grown to nearly $112 million, according to a report issued by Tourism Economics for New York State Empire State Development Division of Tourism; Delaware County Chamber of Commerce President Ray Pucci comments:

(Ray Pucci 8-21-18)

The report showed that tourist spending statewide increased by 4.4%, growth in the Catskills region increased by 7.1%, while Delaware County saw an increase of 11.6% in 2017. Pucci said that tourism dollars translates into 1,100 Jobs, which translates into $38 Million in Labor Income recirculating into the County's economy. More information is available at delawarecounty.org or 746-2281.

Broome, Chenango, Delaware and Otsego counties will all receive funding to support emergency response operations, as part of a statewide program administered by the Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Services. Funding will be used for upgrades in call-taking and dispatching technology, including investing in new services such as text messaging, data communication and improvements to geo-location for emergency response. Local Assemblyman Cliff Crouch said that Broome County was awarded $194,069, Chenango County $179,215, Delaware County $168,096 and Otsego County $157,615.

The State Labor Department released the statistics for the month of July today, as unemployment statewide fell 2/10's to 4.3%. Locally, Chenango County had 4.1% unemployment, Delaware County had 4.7% & Otsego County had 4.3% in July.

The Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce will hold their next general membership meeting today at the back of Bob’s Diner. The meeting will begin at 7:30 am.

Norwich City Police & Chenango County Sheriff’s Deputies executed a 'No Knock' search warrant Thursday, police arrested 26 year old Todd Diamond & 24 year old Brittany Dunagan of Norwich for Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance, Criminal Nuisance & Endangering the Welfare of a Child. Both are accused of selling methamphetamines, and that there was a child present when drug sales occurred. Diamond and Dunagan were arraigned in Norwich City Court and remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $10,000 cash bail each pending court action on October 10th.

Governor Cuomo announced that work is complete on a state-of-the-art Southern Tier Welcome Center rest area on Interstate 81 in Kirkwood. The revamped Southern Tier Welcome Center will encourage travelers to visit new tourism destinations across the state and region, promotes New York's food and beverage products at an expanded Taste New York facility.

The Deposit Chamber Of Commerce will hold their annual Octoberfest this Sunday, Chamber President Nick Barone explains:

(Nick Barone 10-3-17)

The event will be hold on Front Street in Downtown Deposit Sunday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office & the Broome County Sheriff’s Office arrested a Village of Oxford man on an active arrest warrant for Forcible Touching. 27-year-old Michael Pier was wanted on an active arrest warrant issued by the Village of Oxford Court, he was arraigned in the Village of Oxford Court and remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility on $2500 cash bail. Pier is to re-appear in the Village of Oxford Court on a later date.

The Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce will host "Summer Fest 2017" this Saturday at various locations in the village. Chamber Spokesperson June White explains:

(June White 7-17-17)

Various downtown businesses, plus the Jericho Arts Gallery will be open, there will also be a Golf Ball Drop, wandering musicians, a Movie in the Park, the festival runs from 2:00 until dark on Saturday.

Chenango County Sheriff’s Office responded to a burglary in progress in the Town of Norwich Saturday. 3 subjects were reported fleeing a residence and traveling behind neighboring properties. Deputies responded & located & arrested 25 year old Tiffany Vallance from North Norwich, 22 year old Faziem Jenkins from the City of Norwich, and 21 year old Russell Button of Plymouth. Jenkins and Vallance are accused of unlawfully entering the building while Button acted as a lookout, Jenkins and Vallance allegedly attempted to steal property of the owners. All 3 were charged with 2nd degree Burglary and Conspiracy; they were arraigned in the Town of North Norwich Court and remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility on $5000 cash bail.

Governor Cuomo hosted the 2017 Adirondack Summer Challenge this weekend, promoting the world-class tourism destinations and recreational opportunities in Upstate New York. The 2017 Adirondack Summer Challenge welcomed more than 400 guests, showcasing outdoor activities available to visitors in the region, including hiking, golfing and horseback riding. In 2016, New York welcomed a record 239 million visitors who spent nearly $65 billion, generating a total economic impact of more than $100 billion for the third straight year. Tourism remains the state's 4th largest employer, & 2nd largest industry, supporting more than 914,000 jobs annually.

4 people were arrested on drug charges following the execution of a ‘no knock’ warrant on North Broad Street in Norwich Tuesday. Arrested were 19-year-old Chase Webb of Norwich, 37-year-old Steven Peterson of New York City, 30-year-old Sebastian Catanzaro of Norwich and 28-year-old Christina Banks of Norwich. Webb is accused of selling heroin; Peterson is accused of possessing cocaine and crack with the intent to sell. Catanzaro and Banks are accused of maintaining a place for drug sales. All 4 were arraigned; Webb was remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility pending future court action.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce is hosting its Annual Awards Gala at the Castle on the Delaware, in Walton today from 5:30 to 8:30 PM. The Village of Sidney is recieving recognition as the Business Advocate of the Year, according to Delaware County Chamber President Ray Pucci:

(Ray Pucci 5-17-17)

Other award recipients are: Businesses of the Year - Friesland-Campina DOMO, Saputo Dairy Foods; the new Business of the Year is Union Grove Distillery; Tourism Award goes to Wayside Cidery and Tap Room.

The Flood warning is continuing to be issued by the National Weather service for the WCDO listening area through Saturday afternoon. In Sidney, Mayor Andy Matviak told WCDO what is expected after consulting with Sidney High School Science Teacher & Meteorologist Rich Townsend this morning:

(Andy Matviak 4-7-17)

Minor flooding has been reported along the Susquehanna River in Unadilla & Bainbridge locally, as well as in Walton on the Delaware River, and in Sherburne & Greene along the Chenango River. River Gauges can be accessed at WCDORadio.com & click on the River Levels Icon.

The Sidney Chamber of Commerce will hold the Annual Arts & Music Festival on July 15th in Keith Clark Park, as Main Street will be undergoing renovations during the summer months. The chamber is looking for vendors who want to participate to contact the Chamber soon, according to Stephanie Taylor & Teri Schunk:

(Steph Taylor-Teri Schunk 4-7-16)

This, the Headliners will be Woodshed Prophets, The Art portion of the event is being coordinated by Dan Harrington of the Harrington Gallery. Other scheduled activities will include the Classic Car Cruise in, Cullman Days and the event will also fall on the Sidney Alumni weekend.

Chenango Arts Council will have the "Open Hand Theater" presenting "The Chocolate War". Council Interim Executive Director Alecia O'Neill explains:

(Alecia O’Neill 4-7-17)

The show will be held at the Martin W. Kappel Theater in Norwich at 2:00 PM Sunday, more information about this & other events can be accessed at Chenango Arts.org or at 336-2787.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce is hosting a membership Breakfast in Hancock this morning. The Networking Breakfast will be held from 8:30 to 10:00 am at the Hancock House at 137 East Main Street in Hancock.

The Delaware County Tourism Advisory Board will meet this morning at 10am at the County Office Building, 111 Main Street, Delhi. The meeting is open to the public.

Chenango County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant on a 2013 Nissan Rogue and the occupant 24 year old Taylor Nelson of Afton. A traffic stop was conducted in Oxford where Nelson was taken into custody; Officers recovered digital scales, packaging material, methamphetamine, and cash. Nelson is accused of selling Crystal Methamphetamine in Chenango County & in the Village of Sidney, he was charged with Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance, Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, and Criminal Use of Drug Paraphernalia. He was arraigned in the Town of Bainbridge Court and remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility on $20,000 cash bail.

Former independent congressional candidate Robert Doggart of Tennessee was found guilty of solicitation to commit a civil rights violation, solicitation to commit arson and making a threat in interstate commerce, for his alleged plotting of an attack on Islamberg in Hancock. Doggart was arrested by the FBI, after he made threats to attack the Muslim community in Delaware county, and burn all of their buildings down. Doggart faces sentencing may 31st.

Governor Cuomo announced the state would invest an additional $8 million for upgrades at Belleayre Ski Center to attract more visitors and build on the Catskill Region’s tourism industry. The investment will enhance the current facilities at Belleayre Mountain with the installation of a new, high-speed gondola, multiple lodge expansions and the addition of modern amenities for both lodges at the resort.

Sales tax collections in Delaware County grew by about 7% in 2016, according to a report recently released by the Office of the New York State Comptroller. Delaware County Chamber of Commerce president Ray Pucci, claims that tourism is reason:

(Ray Pucci 2-7-17)

While statewide collections grew by 2.3%, Delaware County was among only six counties that saw increases of more than 4%, Regionally, the Southern Tier counties grew by less than 1%.

A free business partnership workshop open to the public will be held tonight at the Oxford Academy primary school multi purpose room. Representatives from the Voss Group & Southern Tier Startup Alliance will speak to those who are thinking about becoming entrepreneurs in the Greater Chenango Area, the workshop runs form 6:30to 8:00 PM tonight & is one of a series of workshops as part of the 2 year "Innovation Series" of monthly forums. More information is available at 843-2025 extension 3301.

Firefighters from Norwich, North Norwich & Sherburne responded to a vehicle fire on State route 12 between North Norwich & Sherburne, yesterday afternoon. A Pepperidge farms delivery truck was in flames when fire fighters arrived shortly after 12:00 Noon Wednesday, Chenango county fire investigators reported that the vehicle had broken down, was towed to a rest area, when a mechanic ruptured a gas line. The vehicle was totally destroyed, no injuries were report, and no tickets were issued.

Chenango County Sheriff Ernest Cutting was Elected 2nd Vice Chair of the Executive Committee of the New York State Sheriffs' Association, at the 83rd Annual Winter Training Conference last week in Albany. Sheriff Cutting will work with Sheriffs around the state, to further the efforts of the Sheriffs' Association to enhance public safety in New York State through professional training and accreditation programs, public safety programs, and advocacy. The New York State Sheriffs' Association, Inc. is a not-for-profit corporation, formed in 1934, for the purpose of assisting sheriffs in the efficient and effective delivery of services to the public.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce seeks nominations of Delaware County businesses for Business of the Year, New Business of the Year, Tourism Property of the Year, and Business Advocate of the Year. Nominations must be received by the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce at 5 ½ Main Street, Delhi, NY 13753 or info@delawarecounty.org by February 20th. Awards will be presented at the Chamber's Annual Awards Gala in May, more information is available at the Chamber at 746-2281.

Tioga Downs in Nichols will officially open as a full-fledged casino tomorrow. The site was awarded one of the last Casino licenses by the state gaming commission, as another way to increase upstate tourism & development. A New casino sneak Preview is being conducted at the Nichols facility this afternoon, prior to tomorrow’s official opening.

Chenango County Sheriff's deputies arrested a town of Sherburne man for DWI and aggravated DWI following a one-car crash last week. 24 year old Branden McDaniel was arrested by the Chenango County Sheriff's Office following a crash on Kendricks Road in the Town of Sherburne on November 24th. McDaniel is accused of operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol content of .18 or higher. McDaniel will appear in Sherburne Town Court at a later date.

The Chenango County Sheriff's Department arrested 21-year-old Matthew DeVaul of Binghamton Tuesday, on a charge of Grand Larceny. DeVaul is accused in connection with a reported larceny of a vehicle from a Town of Afton residence; he was arraigned in the Town of Afton Court and remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $2000 cash bail pending future court action.

The Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce will have their next Business After Hours event today. The Business After Hours program will be held at Nana’s Keepsakes from 5:30 to 7:00 PM, and the Public is welcome to attend.

State Police arrested 30-year-old Maxx Waters of Afton for 3rd degree Assault & harassment. Troopers responded to a dispute at a home on Hilltop Drive in the Town of Afton, where Waters allegedly engaged in a physical dispute with 2 other victims, with one of the victims receiving a laceration to the head. Waters was arraigned in the Town of Afton Court where he was remanded to the Chenango County Court on $1,500 cash bail or $3,000 property bond. His next court date is on December 8, 2016.

A City of Norwich resident was arrested by the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office on a Fugitive of Justice complaint from New Jersey. 30-year-old Scott Russell was taken into custody and was brought to the Town of Norwich Court. Russell was remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility with no bail. He is to reappear in the Chenango County Court at a later date.

Chenango county sheriffs deputies arrested 56-year-old Peter Constantinou of New Berlin for 3rd degree Assault & Endangering the Welfare of a Child, following an investigation by Chenango County Child Protective Services and the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office. Constantinou faces action in the Town of New Berlin Court at a later date.

The Otsego County Chamber of commerce announces that their Education Committee will host a discussion supporting Tourism on Wednesday, November 9, from 8:30 10:00 AM. The event will be held at the Foothills Performing Arts Center on Market Street in Oneonta, more information is available at 432-4500 extension 207.

State Police arrested 35-year-old James Smith of Norwich for criminal sexual act & endangering the welfare of a child. The arrest occurred after troopers were advised of an incident that happened in the Town of Norwich, Smith is accused of having sexual contact by forcible compulsion, he was arraigned in the Town of Oxford court and was remanded to the Chenango County jail on $25,000 cash bail or $50,000 property bond, pending court action at a later date in the Town of Norwich court.

The 2016 New York State Tourism and Craft Beverage Summit will bring hundreds of industry experts together on Tuesday, October 18 to discuss new strategies to strengthen the economy and create jobs in New York. The Summit will begin at 10 a.m. in the Hart Lounge at The Egg on the Empire State Plaza. The morning session will consist of presentations and discussions by State officials and industry experts on the impact of both industries across New York State.

The Greater Afton Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting the Fall 2016 Four Chamber Mixer today at 6:00 pm at the Highway 7 Bar and Grill on route 7 in Bainbridge. the Guest Speaker will be Rich Cuthbertson regarding the Afton Sertoma